Digital fundamentals: What are the only two symbols (digits) used to represent numbers in the binary number system commonly used in computer logic?

Introduction / Context:
The binary number system underpins all digital electronics and computing. Understanding its digits and place-value representation is foundational for logic design, microprocessors, and data encoding.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Binary is base-2.
• Digits available in a base-b system are 0 through b − 1.
• We are asked specifically for the symbols used as digits.

Concept / Approach:
In any positional system with base b, exactly b distinct digits exist. For binary (b = 2), the allowed digits are 0 and 1. Numbers are formed by weighting each position by powers of 2 (1, 2, 4, 8, ...).

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify base → 2.Enumerate digits → 0 to b − 1 → 0 and 1.Confirm with examples: binary 1011 = 18 + 04 + 12 + 11 = 11.

Verification / Alternative check:
Think in terms of logic levels: digital circuits represent LOW and HIGH, which correspond naturally to 0 and 1.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
0,1,2: includes a third digit not allowed in base-2.0 through 8: describes base-9.1,2: excludes 0 and includes an illegal digit for binary.0 and 9: mismatched base-10 digits only.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing the count of bits with allowed digits, or assuming binary must exclude zero. Zero is a valid binary digit.

Final Answer:
0,1